AC Milan secured all three points with a narrow 1-0 victory over Hellas Verona on Friday evening, revitalizing their Serie A campaign after struggling results earlier this season. The team's only goal was scored by Dutch striker Tijjani Reijnders, who expertly finished a pass from Youssouf Fofana early in the second half, allowing Milan to breathe easier after recent challenges.
This win marked Milan's eighth consecutive league victory against Verona, putting them back on track following their previous losses to Atalanta and the disappointing draw with Genoa. With this result, Milan climbed to seventh place in Serie A, still aspiring for a spot within the coveted top four, which is instrumental for UEFA Champions League qualifications.
Paulo Fonseca, the head coach, found some temporary respite following the match as management and fans alike have been voicing doubts about his position. Having faced criticism for poor displays, including the lackluster match against Genoa, this win was not entirely reassuring. According to Daniele Longo reporting for Calciomercato.com, the performance was characterized by individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play, highlighted by the low expected goals (xG) rating of just 0.84 for the Rossoneri.
Reijnders, who scored his eighth goal of the season, acknowledged the team's struggles but emphasized the importance of the win. "It was very important… luckily we won because it was a difficult match, but we got the three points and now we can celebrate Christmas," he said. Despite the victory, disgruntled fans made their opinions clear during the match, expressing displeasure with chants directed at the ownership, urging Gerry Cardinale of RedBird Capital Partners to "sell and go." This outcry reflected frustration with the team's current position, far below expectations for the season.
Milan's chairman Paolo Scaroni defended the club's ownership, stating they remain committed for the long term following recent financial structuring announcements. He noted the refinancing of the vendor loan taken out with previous owners Elliott Management when acquiring the club and stressed the need for financial stability, which the management seems to prioritize over simply winning.
Missing key players like Christian Pulisic and Alvaro Morata, Milan faced significant roster challenges going against Verona. Notably, Rafael Leao's first-half exit due to a hamstring issue added to the club's woes. Coach Fonseca confirmed the injury was precautionary, reassuring fans about Leao’s condition. "I just spoke to Rafa and I don’t think it’s anything serious," he remarked after the match.
Verona, on the other hand, remains precariously positioned just above the relegation zone after the loss. Under Paolo Zanetti, the team has struggled this season, and they must regroup quickly to avoid slipping closer to the bottom of the table.
This match has revived hope for AC Milan fans, yet the path forward remains laden with obstacles. With the Serie A season continuing, Fonseca knows he must build on this victory to maintain his position as head coach, especially with trip to Rome against AS Roma approaching. Additional pressure mounts as the ownership's expectations remain firmly geared toward climbing the standings and ensuring European football next season.
AC Milan is aware of the roadblocks and the urgency needed to secure successful outcomes moving forward. The win over Verona may have alleviated some immediate pressures, but the scrutiny appears far from over. Fonseca must rally his players and deliver consistent performances if he aims to solidify his future at the club and give fans the football they expect from such a storied institution.
